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Class 



Book 



Copyright N°. 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 



"SINCERELY 
YOURS" 



VERSES BY 

NELL RANDOLPH BLOUNT 




1905 






4 



LIBRARY of CONGRESS 

Two Copies Received 

DEC 26 1905 

Copyright Entry 
LASS (X XXc. No, 
f COPY B. 



If- 



Copyright 1905 
Nell R. Blount 



For me — I wrote 

False poems like the rest 

And thought them true, 

Because myself was true in writing them." 

— Elizabeth Barret Browning. 



CONTENTS 



A Helper 21 

A Letter 56 

A Letter from Santa Claus ■ . ' 91 

An Answering Face 98 

An Invitation 28 

An Offering 17 

Apology and Dedication 9 

A Prayer 102 

A Preacher 18 

A Psalm of Truth 105 

A Regret 27 

A Touch in Passing 40 

A Transplanted Flower 70 

A Valentine 83 

Baby Ellen 45 

Calmed 67 

Completeness 90 

Dedication of Fish Pond 48 

Entered In 10 

For June's Autograph 24 

For Value Received 66 

Fragments 87 

From Sequanota Boys 53 

From Sequanota Girls 52 

Galesburg Folks 54 

Garden of the Gods, In 79 

God Ktfows 109 

Good Bye 26 

Good Bye, Be Good, Little Girl 12 

Good Bye Old Year 101 

Graydon 32 

Heard on the Corner 93 

Heart Havens 41 

Heart of the Home 16 



CONTENTS — Continued 

Page 

He Got There 80 

His Rest 103 

If You Remember 37 

In Arizona 36 

Italian Weather 62 

I Think I Must be Going 31 

It is Written 99 

It Wasn't in the Books 72 

I Want to be Good to You 20 

Ministering Spirits 68 

Nature's Voices 25 

Other Things . ' 77 

Our Neighbor 39 

Our Platform 29 

Pop Corn Johnnie 88 

Retribution 22 

Remembered 30 

Take Courage 38 

The Best Reward 64 

The Bridge 50 

The Captain's Story 46 

The Reason 35 

The Silver Lining 75 

The Way Appointed 59 

Time is Short 94 

Toast for Class of '79 33 

To Mrs. Tweed 65 

To The Puritans 85 

To You 95 

Understood 104 

Unfading 89 

Violet Voices 14 

Wee William 42 

What Matter? 69 

When She Left 44 

Worth While 96 



SINCERELY YOURS 



APOLOGY AND DEDICATION. 

To the Stranger : 

If stranger hands should find this little book, 

And turn its pages for a critic's glance, 
Sure faults will show, which patience cannot 
brook, 

So here I give fair warning for such chance. 
This little volume came to form and light 

Not for the merit in its pages shown, 
But rather, that my friends have asked the right 

To have in shape which each may call his own. 

To My Friends: 

Reading between the lines which are but weak, 

Save in the lenient light of friendship's eye, 
Your hearts perhaps will see the truth I seek, 

And from your knowledge, all my lack supply. 
I did not write because 'twas good to read, 

But just to make my restless thought more 
still- 
Now you'll accept apology I plead ? 

I'm taking it for granted that von will. 



10 SINCERELY YOURS 



ENTERED IK 

In memory of R. S. B. 

Out from the years of earth-life, from all its cares 

set free, 
Into the Home Eternal, just over the jasper sea; 
Leaving the weary body that weakness and pain 

oppress, 
To enter "newness of life with Christ," "robed in 

His righteousness." 

Taking in trust God's giving (great things no more 

than small), 
Her labor of love completed, she answered her 

Master's call. 
"Faithful in least" her standard, "ruler in much" 

His reward, 
Rich in the wealth of a greater world, inheritor 

with her Lord. 

Eyes that have seen His beauty in flower and tree 
and bird, 

Ears that have heard His music in summer winds 
that stirred, 

Soul that has felt His glory in faulty human 
clay, 

Must see and hear and understand heaven's won- 
drous world toclav. 



SINCERELY YOURS 11 

Hands that were ever opened to help His "least of 

these," 
Heart that was e'er responsive to human, nature's 

pleas, 
Life that was never idle while yet a need was 

shown, 
Today in that better country find rest and joy at 

home. 

Sorrow ? Ah ! no. ~Not sorrow, for she has gained 

so much, 
But loneliness and longing, in hearts that miss her 

touch. 
By her life, so strong yet tender, by her death 

so brave and true, 
May we meet as she has taught us, each task that 

comes to do. 



12 SINCERELY YOURS 



GOOD-BYE— BE GOOD, LITTLE GIRL. 
To J. W. B. 

Sometimes when I am so weary, 

And little things all go wrong ; 
When clays seem brief and dreary, 

And nights so hard and long, 
I hear in my heart soft whispers 

From out of my childhood's day, 
That come like the evening vespers 

Breathed over the troubled way. 

Then someway, my fierce rebelling 

All suddenly disappears 
Under that touch — compelling 

The banishment of all tears. 
"Down to the corner" I'm going 

"A piece with papa" once more, 
As memory's torch is throwing 

Its glow on days of yore. 

I see my father, walking 

In younger manhood's pride, 
I, with childish talking, 

"Going a piece," by his side. 
Then from the corner starting, 

(As he brushes back a curl), 
I hear his voice in parting, 

k -(;<.n<M)V(>, be srood little girl." 



SINCERELY YOURS 13 



Tonight my thoughts reviewing 

The days passed by since then, 
Show his life strong in doing 

Of good, to fellow men. 
And while my duties lengthen, 

Amidst the busy whirl, 
There sounds his voice to strengthen, 

"Good-bye, be good little girl." 

Could clouclland glory open 

To pass his helpful word, 
I think the same thought spoken, 

Would come as I have heard. 
Out from the Heavenly Dwelling, 

Down through the gates of pearl, 
I think Fd hear him telling — 

"Good-bye, be good little girl." 

So, in the daily learning 

Of lessons hard to know, 
My heart is often returning 

To ways I ought to go. 
Hard tasks seem someway lighter 

Than once I thought they could, 
And all the way grows brighter 

As I struggle to "be good." 



14 SINCERELY YOURS 



VIOLET VOICES. 
To M. D. 

Koses, lilies, carnations, 

What others have you there ? 

Ah ! yes, give me the violets, 
There's nothing to compare. 

Some way their sweet, bright blossoms 
Speak comfort, peace and rest, 

And shining from among them 
A face, of all — the best, 

It speaks from out their petals, 
The face of a mother gone, 

And bending my head above them 
My thought has quickly flown 

Back into childhood's playtime, 
On into girlhood's hours, 

Working with her beside me 
Among the treasured flowers. 

Again I see her prisoned 
By illness' tightening grasp, 

Smiling on dainty flowers 
Held in her gentle clasp. 



SINCERELY YOURS 15 

And then there comes a memory, 

Sacred o'er all I keep — 
The precious form so quiet 

In its never-ending sleep. 



Resting against her garments 
A hunch of violets lay, 

Sent by an almost stranger 
From a house not far away. 



A graceful unvoiced tribute 
To a noble woman's name. 

As a fitting benediction 
On that last dav it came. 



And so these violet voices 
In fragrant tones so clear, 

Speak their tender message 
Of a sainted mother dear. 

Sweeter than any other 
To me must always be 

The fragrance of their helping 
Through that precious memory 



16 SINCERELY YOURS 



THE UK ART OF THE HOME. 

Facing the row of maple trees 
That whisper sofl in the morning breeze, 
The old house stands in silence Jeep 
Almost as the lnish of eternal sleep. 
Ami some way, the look of all the place 
Is like to that on a dear, dead face. 

Scenting the air, the same sweet flowers, 

The same old shrubs and trees in bowers, 
But thiek at roots are grasses grown, 

And stirring the tops (almost a moan) 
The voice of the air make- sad refrain 
"It will never be the same again/' 

Into new hands it soon must go, 
This dear old ""home" we all loved so. 
Precions things beyond compare 
Will go from out our fostering rare. 
Scenes that seem but of yesterday, 
Will soon forever have passed away. 

The old moves off — the new draws near. 
Mantles of gayety cover a bier. 
So let it bo — The old home died. 
When the Little Mother left our side. 
The "past" is ours, to sacred keep 
In heart depth- holy, buried deep. 



SINCERELY YOURS 17 



AN OFFERING. 

Naught have I, Master, now to bring to Thee 

Only myself, and what Thou gavest me. 

Heart, thoughts and efforts 

Such as I call mine 

O take and bless and make them truly Thine 

Put in my heart a wish to do Thy will, 

My thoughts and plans with love for Thee. fill, 

Thy Spirit grant to shine in act and word, 

That what I do, may be as to the Lord. 



18 SINCERELY YOURS 



A PREACHEE. 
(To V. V. D.) 

Today I heard a sermon 

That has given comfort well. 
The "text" I think I cannot 

Just now exactly tell. 
The church that I attended 

Was not quite "orthodox" 
For the pulpit was a counter 

And the text-hook was a box; 
The face that shone above them 

With smile so warm and sweet 
Gave the message that was needed, 

My lonely heart to meet. 

These hours that are so idle, 

Away from homeland dear 
Have wakened frequent longings 

For the old familiar cheer. 
I have missed the friendly welcome 

That was mine on every hand 
And have felt myself a stranger 

Just sojourning in this land. 
But now, that "stranger" feeling 

Doesn't hold me quite so fast, 
Since I've had that helpful greeting 

Like those from out my past. 



SINCERELY YOURS 19 

Formed carelessly it may be, 

Words I do not now recall, 
But the face and tone that shaped them 

Made the "sermon" cover all; 
They showed a soul of sweetness 

In harmony with life, 
Content with daily blessings, 

Keeping out of useless strife, 
May God's benediction touch her, 

This clear preacher of His light 
Who with lamp all trimmed and burning 
Makes other lives more bright. 



20 SINCERELY YOURS 



"I WANT TO BE GOOD TO YOU." 

"You are tired." — 'Twas just an inflection 

That spoke half in question, half fact — 
To turn my mind quickly to searching 

My spent day, with all I had lacked. 
"Tired V Well yes, I was tired — 

For burdens so sorely had pressed, 
But one only, of all my acquaintance, 

My trouble and need had guessed. 

Was I tired ( Ah yes ! so heart-tired ! 

I think even she did not see 
How great was the weariness bearing 

While yet she was helping me. 
Not always in understanding. 

Every burden and doubt and fear 
Is the help, — but in love that is saying 

"I want to be good to von, dear." 

And while she was whispering her wishes, 

Kind eyes looking into my own, — 
I knew, way deep down in my heart-thought 

I had found that for which I had come. 
Just a bit of sympathy given 

By a kindly and helpful face. 
And my prayer for strength was answered 

fn that chance meeting-place. 



SINCERELY YOURS 21 



A HELPER. 

He whistles and sings at his labor, 
My cheery, light-hearted neighbor, 
'Till sunshine seems brighter, 
And shadows grow lighter. 

Because of his song as he works. 

The passer-by hears him, and slowing 
The footsteps so hurriedly going. 
The song heard in snatches 
His own spirit catches, 

From the man who sings as he works. 

Far better the day and the duty. 
And fuller the world is of beauty, 
And truer the living, 
More helpful the giving 

For the song of my neighbor at work. 

I know not his name or his station, 
But greater than wordy oration, 
The sermon he preaches, 
The lesson he teaches, 

By his jolly song as he works. 

May he ever abide in gladness, 
Whore needy hearts burdened by sadness, 
His sunshine may borrow 
To lighten their sorrow, 

'Till they learn to sing as they work. 



22 SINCERELY YOURS 



RETKIBUTIOK 

The night was in June, 

The weather quite warm; 
The people to 1 cool resorts 

Moved in a swarm. 
At a table they sat, 

Eyes fixed on each other — 
She wasn't his cousin, 

He wasn't her brother. 

His ice cream all eaten, 

A second dish called — 
Her own but half finished, 

She looked up appalled. 
Then a bit of reproof 

Shone out of her eye 
As she caught his expression 

And heard a deep sigh. 

She waited a moment 

For best opportunity, 
And said : a Can you eat it 

With perfect impunity V 9 
With superior smile 

He answered her soon, 
"Well, no — (since you ask) 

But I can with a spoon." 



SINCERELY YOURS 23 

Some ten minutes after 

He said, smiling sweet — 
"Can yon, with propriety, 

Walk awhile down the street?" 
She taking his arm, 

While she smiled at the moon, 
Said: "No — (since yon ask) 

But I can with a spoon." 



24 SINCERELY YOURS 

FOR JUNE'S AUTOGRAPH. 

(Dec. 25.) 

And there are other names, though unrecorded 
Upon these pages, for kind memory's thought, 

Which, written now above, their lives rewarded, 
Find Christmas joy of which our lives know 
naught. 

That joy which comes from in His presence 
dwelling 
Whose birth in Bethlehem so long ago 
Gave to the world the gladness earth is telling 
To lift from burdened hearts their weight of 
woe. 

And could the dear ones out from Heaven's portal, 
Speak to us now a word to write for them, 

I think the message from our friends immortal 
Would be the angel song, "Good will to men." 

So — while their names and faces we remember, 
In other days with us at Christmas tide, 

Let all our hearts by memory's touch made ten- 
der, 
Live out a charity more deep and wide. 



SINCERELY YOURS 25 

NATURE'S VOICES. 

(To M.) 

The flowers that blow, 
Speak soft and low 
Of the God they know, 
To His loving child. 

The birds that sing, 
On quivering wing 
His love words bring 
To the listening ear. 

The falling rain 
Like music's strain, 
Chants o'er His name, 
In cadence sweet. 



The mountains high, 
'Gainst azure sky 
His glories cry 

Who formed their slopes. 



Fresh blades of grass 
In waving mass 
Speak as I pass, 
Of power divine. 

Then how can I 
Let days go by, 
And still deny 

The praise His due? 



26 SINCERELY YOURS 



GOOD-BYE. 
(To D.) 

So much I liked your cheery word, dear heart — 

Calling "good-bye" as quick you turned to go. 
And though it should not be for long we part, 

I wish that you might always speak it so. 
If just a few short hours should intervene, 

Or years should pass, before we meet again, 
I want the memory coming in between, 

Of your strong, helpful word as spoken then. 

So full it is of blessing, in the thought, 

"May God be with you" — and I need that 
prayer, 
If but to face the next day's duty brought, 

Or called to meet some heavy load of care. 
Then let me hear you speak it always, dear, 

When from my path another way you move. 
It seems to bring the Heavenly Father near, 

To shield and guide me with His tender love. 



SINCERELY YOURS 27 



A REGKET. 

Where pleasure calls I would obey, 

And move with willing feet, 
But when necessity holds sway, 

I sometimes miss a treat. 

Tonight I sadly stay at home, 

But I'll not needed be, 
Since each girl calls her chap her own 

He takes the place of me. 

I know you will be just as nice 

As though I met with you, 
Enjoying fun and cake and ice, 

The jolly evening through. 

— Your Was to Have Been Chaperone. 



28 SINCERELY YOURS 



AN INVITATION. 

Come ! Come ! 

You'd better run. 

Presents for everyone under the sun. 

Money will buy them, 

Low prices too; 
Just bring your purse and we'll satisfy you. 

New Christmas gifts that are pretty and funny, 
Better than others sold for same money. 

Don't you forget us, 

At five thirty-eight (538) ; 
Out on North Randolph, 

Your presence we'll wait. 

So gladly we'll serve yon, 

With many things fine ; 
Respectfully yours, 

Our names we would sign. — 

Ladies of Baptist Church. 



SINCERELY YOURS 29 



OUR PLATFORM. 

(For Church Social.) 

Although "free silver'' is our call, 
"Sixteen to one" is not our cry. 

We've changed it so's to suit you all, 
Suppose you come and try. 

Our bill-of-fare is good and sweet, 

Sixteen less one, our price. 
!Now bring your purse to Johnson street 

And buy you something nice. 

Three-thirty is the number neat 

Tacked just above the door. 
Walk in and see, and you will eat, 

And quickly call for "mure." 

Bread and butter, cream and peaches, 

Peach in cobbler, cake and pie 
When your appetite this reaches 

A second course please try. 

Peaches pickled, peaches sliced 

Peachy cheeks and peaches spiced ; 
Peaches raw and peach preserves 
(Bring good digestions and strong nerves.) 

And then to end with "extra nice" 

Take a dish of rare peach ice. 



30 SINCERELY YOURS 



REMEMBERED. 
(Sent with souvenir album.) 

Though memory's touch be tender, 
It is strong and sure and deep, 

So affection's voice will waken 
From a sometimes seeming sleep. 

Busy lives may seem neglectful 

Toward old claims of days gone past, 

But through every honest friendship 
Runs a fibre that will last. 

To you — our friends far distant — 
Memory turns our thought to-day, 

So we send this small reminder 
Of the cousins up this way. 



SINCERELY YOURS 31 



"I THINK I MUST BE GOING." 
(Last words of Grace Willis.) 

Going — yes quietly going 

Away from the earth-life clear, 

Yet never a worry or question, 
And never a shade of fear. 

Going — e'en into Death's valley 
'Mid shadows dark and chill, 

Yet never a murmur against them, 
And never a thought of ill. 

Yes, going to meet her Master 
Who died to show the way 

Out of the Valley of Shadow 
Into Eternal Day. 

Just going away from sorrow 
To the Home prepared above, 

To one of the many mansions 
Of endless light and love. 



32 SINCERELY YOURS 



GRAYDOK 

(To Bess V.) 

To find a man like "Graydon Muir" 

I've done my very best, 
But it seems quite impossible 

Pie's so unlike the rest. 
Inclined to do the next best thing 

Within my power to please, 
I've sought and found his counterpart 

Among the forest trees. 
In general shape and style and mold 

Not large or deep or thick 
His character is fitly told — 

A very light weight stick. 

Blease accept. N. 

P. S. : 

If you don't get mad and send him back 

Just use him for a buttonhook rack. 

JST. 



SINCERELY YOURS 33 



TOAST FOR CLASS OF '79. 
(Theme, "Uncrowned Kings.") 

iNot often in this world of toil, 

Do worthy deeds meet due regard, 

And kings and queens in daily life, 
!Not always find their just reward. 

Yet with its losses and its gains 
Life is worth living faithfully 
Look o'er our class as counted now, 
We "kept our Pace," a king is he 

Who claims a realm our country's width. 
While Callie in a lesser sphere 

Rules her small subjects perfectly, 
With scepter which they all revere 

A head uncrowned is Frank's indeed,- 
E'en nature has not done her best, 

But when it comes to brains within 
He surely equals all the rest. 

Then Laura brings to us her boys. 
To whom she is in truth a queen, 

While Livie rules the largest man 
Among our number to be seen. 



34 SINCERELY YOURS 

See Ella Forest — Stock her trade, 

With gold and silver, Roy and Ed 
And Lizzie Gamage, — Beaver caught 

When she prepared to wed. 
Yes, kings and queens are in our midst 

And Dr. D. can make them crowns 
Just go to him when toothache jumps 

And let him drive away your frowns. 

Not all are here. In distant states 

Four classmates now have made their homes, 

While other three have entered in 

That "Country Whence Xo Traveler Comes." 

Kind words of all. Kind thoughts for each, 

In school day loyalty we give, 
May these few words but serve to teach 

That kings and queens among us live. 



SINCERELY YOURS 35 



THE REASON. 

(To M. W.) 

u Why do I love you ?" Tell me, dear, 
The reason for my voilet here, 
Turning its leaves and dainty bloom 
Laden with sweetest of all perfume 
Away from the shadows of my room 
To the clearer light of my window bright. 
"Why do I love you ?" Tell, dear heart, 
Why, when the summer days depart, 
The little bird swift wings his way. 
Into the skies of southern day, 
To bask in the light of warmer ray 
And there in song, earth's joys prolong. 

As God's kind care in Xature's laws, 
Moved flower and bird, so I, because 
God guided me, turned, dear, to you 
Meeting a friendship strong and true, 
Changing old thoughts to pleasures new, 
Unto the end, I'll keep thee friend. 



36 SINCERELY YOURS 



IN ARIZONA. 

"In the good old summertime" 
Of this Arizona clime 

Where roses grow and bloom the whole year 
round — 
Just tell me if you can 
Where you'll find a better plan 

Than to settle for a steady camping-ground. 

With its sunshine pure and warm, 
And bird music that can charm, 

With trees so full and green and skies all bright, 
Say — tell me, if you will, 
Any happier place to fill 

With joy, the hours of every clay and night. 

Winters warm or summers hot, 
Either way it matters not, 

(Save when a "most unusual spring" occurs) 
? Tis the spot to find good health, 
? Tis the place to spend good wealth, 

So the traveler over all the globe, avers. 

Are there flaws ? Well just a few — 
Not more than one or two, 

Like windy days and hurricanes of sand. 
But — who'll remember these, 
When in northern homes we freeze 

And long in vain for glimpse of this Southland ? 



SINCERELY YOURS 37 



IF YOU REMEMBER. 

If the voice which has spoken tenderly 
Should change in its tone some day, 

And words that seem quick and harsh perhaps, 
Should answer some word you say, 

elust try to remember the truth you know, 

? Tis a loving heart, — time will prove it so. 

If the hand which has clasped yours heartily 

Should loosen its hold some day, 
And the strengthening touch of sympathy 

Should seem to be taken away, 
Then try to remember that just the same 
? Tis a loyal hand and will come again. 

If the face which greets yours smilingly, 

Should darken in sudden cloud, 
And just where you need companionship 

You feel alone in the crowd, 
Right there remember — that face is true 
And will turn again with its help to you. 

For the friend who is walking quietly 

In the path you daily tread, 
Perhaps has lessons harder to learn 

Than your life has ever read, 
And if you remember to trust in love 
That friend forever, more true shall prove. 



38 SINCERELY YOURS 



TAKE COURAGE. 

Are yen weary in the Vineyard? 

Does your work seem all in vain, 
Yielding but a bitter fruitage 

Of lost hopes, mistakes and pain ? 
Would you stop ? 

Ah! but listen! "Be not weary 
In well doing. You shall reap, 

If ye faint not. In due season 
( !omes the harvest." — do not weep. 
Try again. 

Have you spoken to some dear one, 
Feeling that you'd gladly give 

Anything within your power 

If for Christ that soul should live? 
Don't give up. 

Has the burden proved too heavy 
For your faltering faith to bear? 

J Tis Tils work and you His worker, 
For His own He shall well care. 
Trust Him yet. 

Would you reach the Heavenly Mansions 
Bearing with you precious sheaves? 

Patience then — He, loving watches 
And the faithful child ne'er leaves. 
So keep on. 



SINCERELY YOURS 39 



OUR NEIGHBOR. 

(To Mrs. Hughes.) 

Who lives across on Center street. 
Where honeysuckle grows so sweet, 
And smiles on us whene'er we meet \ 
Our neighbor. 

Who comes to sit awhile, and speak 
Of various things that till the week, 
Helping to keep our spirits meek \ 
Our neighbor. 

Who sends us doughnuts fresh and good, 
Sweetening for us our daily food. 
And leaving us in happy mood \ 
Our neighbor. 

Who takes us in at dead of night. 
And makes our troubles all come right, 
Relieving us in serious plight? 
Our neighbor. 

Who merits everlasting praise, 
"For kindness shown in various ways 
That we'll remember all our days? 
Our neighbor. 

V. V. D.— 'N. R. B. 



40 SINCERELY YOURS 



A TOUCH IN PASSING. 

A toucli and smile as she passed along; 
A glimpse — a word — and in the throng 
She was lost to sight, but my heart grew strong 
Because of her passing there. 

My face was turned, and I had not known 
A friend was near, till she had gone. 
And left me feeling less — "alone" 
After her greeting swift. 

Such a little thing it was quite forgot 
By her who gave it, I question not, — 
But it marked for me the brightest spot 
Tn the hours of my day. 

I wonder how oft in life we stand 
Close to some hungry heart's demand, 
That we might answer with touch of hand 
If we hut looked for such. 

'Tis the thing of all this great world needs, 
Far more than doctrines, forms and creeds 
The helpfulness of kindly deeds 
In hearty friendliness. 

'Tis the most we can do, after all you know. 
A passing touch — and on we go. 
Then why not give it often so, 

In warmth of heart and hand ? 



SINCERELY YOURS 41 



THE HEART'S HAVEK 
(To B. I, B.) 

In many climes my footsteps roam, 

Up steeps, down dales where beauties are, 

But whether it be near or far 
My journey runs, 'tis best toward "home." 

I love old earth. A touch divine 

Has given us glory everywhere; 

Yet nothing seems so good, so fair, 
As the home roof-tree and its vine. 

Wonders of man inspire my mind, 
Wonders of God uplift my soul, 
But through them all, to one sure goal 

My heart turns back to home, I find. 

Health, friends and pleasure. Yes, all these 
May meet me in my pilgrim way, 
And for them all, praise God to-day, 
But most of all, for home's sweet peace. 



42 SINCERELY YOURS 



TO WEE WILLIAM. 
(Eight Weeks Old.) 

Helh Wee William! How's the world? 

Does it strike you pretty well. 
Or art' there lots of troubles 

You'd like to try to tell ( 
Does grandma trot and rock von \ 

Do aunties pull your nose \ 
Does mamma stick von full of pins 

In putting on your clothe- \ 
Does papa toss and bounce you 

And twist you into curves 
That threaten quite to break your neck 

Or shatter your young nerves? 
Does grandpa talk big words to you 

That most distract your brain? 
Do cousins whisper "baby talk" 

That really gives you pain \ 
Well, never mind, wee martyr, 

There's a fine day coming yet. 
When just a little older grown, 

A sure revenge you'll get. 
When colic strikes, and teeth crop out, 

And croup and measles come, 
With chicken pox and whooping cough 

You sure can make things hum. 



SIXCERELY YOURS A3 

Insist on having meal time, 

In the middle of the night, 
Then make your time of rising 

One hour before daylight. 
Just keep them going lively, 

For yon owe it to them all, 
And when there's nothing else to do 

Fill up your lungs and — bawl. 
J Tis a large responsibility 

Your family to raise, 
But I think you will eventually, 

Succeed, deserving praise. 

(To Wm. Blount Provine.) 



44 SINCERELY YOURS 



WHEX she left. 

(For Bess V.) 

When she left ! O, wondrous leaving 
Of this life so bravely borne, 

'Mid the burdens of frail body. 
Oftentimes so weak and worn. 

And she left them all — these burdens ; 

Left them in the "shadow land;" 
Questioned not, but at His bidding 

Reached to take her Master's hand. 

Even though her dearly loved ones 
She must leave to work alone, 

She was ready still to answer 

To His calling, "Child, come home." 

Hearts are sad and sore left lonely 
In the place she made so dear, 

Yet, could I call her back to you 
I would not bring her here. 

When she left this earthly dwelling 
For the one not made by hand, 

Ended then all pain and question 
She had failed to understand. 

Found, instead, Christ's blessed sunlight, 
With no good thing else denied ; 

In His presence there awakened, 
In His likeness "satisfied." 



SINCERELY YOURS 45 



TO BABY ELLEK 

What shall I write for baby's eves, 

That shine with light from God's bright skies? 

What shall I say for her pink ears \ 
It must be sweet, if baby hears. 

What shall I wish for her wee hand, 
That soon shall rule by love's command ? 

A loving word I long to give 

Of the place where she has come to live. 

A hope that her eyes may ever see 
A beautiful world in her life to be. 

A wish that to her ears may come 
Earth's sweetest music — that of "home." 

A prayer that her hands may find and do 
The work of a woman strong and true. 



46 SINCERELY YOURS 



THE CAPTAIN'S STORY. 
(To A. Eads.) 

The evening had been a jolly one, 

Where fun held full command 
Till, just as the program was almost done, 

The "Captain" was called to stand. 

Surprised hut vet unquestioning, 

He rose before us all 
To speak as only a man can speak 

Who has answered his country's call. 

The story, perhaps a common tale, 

Of soldiers who fought and died. 
But the heart that spoke through the captain' 
voice 

Opened our vision wide. 

We saw, as before we had not seen, 

Brave boys, full grown to men, 
In moments of quick decision 

That won our victories then. 

Battlefields passed before our eyes — 

Horror of shot and shell, 
And suffering none but a soldier's word 

And a soldier's heart could toll. 



SINCERELY YOURS 47 

We felt that break in the captain's speech 

Told pain Ave had never known. 
As he lived that moment miles away, 

In a world that was all his own. 

A world of anguish, carnage and death, 

Where nioit — just boys in years, 
Could dare and do unflinchingly 

Deeds moving yet, to tears. 

Our hearts were touched to a deeper strength, 

Our eyes to a larger sight, 
Our lives to a higher, nobler aim, 

By the captain's words that night. 

May the God of Battles, leading now 

Keep us in ranks as true 
Till the pearly gates shall open wide 

For His soldiers to pass through. 



48 SINCERELY YOURS 



DEDICATION" OF THE EISH POND. 

On the hill-top by the water. 
In the great Club House front door yard, 
Stood the white man from the prairies, 
Who had come for summer fishing 
To the land of Sequanota. 
Stooping was the white chief, busy 
Fashioning a fountain wondrous 
In the midst of the new fish pond, 
On the Sequanota hill-top. 

Through the tall grass by the sand-road 

Came a band of strange new people. 

Swift and stealthy was their coming, 

Chocolate was their complexion ; 

Wild their eyes and wierd their costumes, 

Striking silence to the white men 

And their wives and children gathered 

Round about their chief stone mason, 

Who, so busy o'er the basin 

Saw them not, nor heard their coming 

Till he finished. Then uprising 

Stood confronting that procession. 

Speechless stood he — wondering, staring. 



SINCERELY YOURS 49 

Sudden then, and harsh, blood curdling 
Pngitahi raised his war whoop. — 
Raised it high, and cleft the azure, 
While each squaw by way of greeting 
Grunted "Ugh!" and wierdly chanted 
Strange new words of hidden meaning. 

To the front, then came the big chief 
— Cheeky Ankining the mighty, — ■ 
Cheeky Ankining the hghty, — 
With a pipe of great dimensions 
Tilled with coffee, ground to fineness. 
'Twas the peace-pipe, and he, lighting, 
Smoked and passed it to the white man, 
Saying in his Indian-English: 
"White man come — big chief feel happy. 
Like white man for making fish pond. 
When white man go hack to prairies 
Indian like white man -till better. 
Leaving fish in pond for Indian 
And his squaw to catch and eat them. 
— Take this pipe, be friend to big chief, 
Other white man — this bridge-builder — ■ 
Big chief likes for building bridges, 
And this tomahawk lie gives him. 
That more bridge- he may fashion 
In the land of Sequanota, 
Won deraus land of wondrous people.' 7 



50 SINCERELY YOURS 



THE BRIDGE. 

(Sequanota version.) 

They sat on the bridge at noon-tide 
As the people were passing by, 

And the sun shone over the "Lake Front" 
From out the autumn sky. 

T. wondered what was doing, 
And could not help but look, 

When sudden it dawned upon me, 

"They are having their pictures took." 

Miss Myra, Kellogg, and Lulu 
And Alice and Mary and "Tom" 

Miss Boult, Miss Atwood and England 
With pennant tight pinned on. 

Against the long, gray rafters 
The wavering shadows swung 

Clouding three acres of landscape 
That 'neath their shoe-soles hung. 

And sweeping up from the houses 

There came the old refrain 
"How dark the air is growing, — 

It must be £oh]o to rain." 



SINCERELY YOURS 51 

Then I thought how very lucky, 
That the launch ride failed to he, 

For that mighty load of foot-gear 
Would have swamped it fatally. 

So, will that broken engagement 

A source of rejoicing appear, 
Since all that launching party 

Is saved from a fate so drear. 



52 SINCERELY YOURS 



FROM THE SEQUAKOTA GIRLS. 

Here's to the boys, the little hoys ! 

The fellows who run, and make lots of noise. 

We have them, we like them, — we claim them our 

own. 
Fine manly chaps they will make when they're 

grown. 

The little boys. 

Here's to the boys, the older boys! 

The fellows who double all of our joys. 

We want, tbem, we'll keep them — but they are so 

few, 
To increase the supply, say, what would you do 
Tor more big boys ? 

Here's to the boys, the absent boys! 

The fellows who must stay in Charlevoix. 

We miss them, — we'd like them, why don't they 

come near 
To help on our summer of rest and good cheer, — • 
The absent boys. 



SINCERELY YOURS S3> 



FROM THE SEQUANOTA BOYS. 

Here's to the girls, the little girls! 
Who wear their hair in braids and curls. 
We have them, we'll keep them as long as we may, 
To brighten the hours in many a day. 
The little girls. 

Here's to the girls, the younger girls! 

Our colony's jewels, her rubies and pearls. 

We have them, we like them, we want them for 

good, 
And would not give them up if you ask that we 

should. 

The younger girls. 

Here's to. the girls, the older girls ! 

Who smile and look sweet, till a fellow's head 

whirls. 
We want them, we'll get them — just give us a 

chance, 
Then keep your eyes open and look for romance 
You older airls. 



54 SINCERELY YOURS 



GALESBURG FOLKS. 
(A tribute from Macomb.) 

When the pleasant days fast flitting 
Have left ns winter's chill, 

And we gather round our hearthstones 
In the evening" hour still, 

Thinking over all our comforts 
Quite forgetting every ill, 

Then will come a thought inspiring- 
One that certain joy invokes, 

When chief of summer blessings 
We remember 

Galesburg folks. 

We have felt quite like "relations" 

In one big happy home. 
May that feeling be continued 

Though paths apart must roam, 
'Tis a comfortable notion — 

That of kinfolks from Macomb, 
And there comes a thought inspiring, 

One that certain joy invokes, 
When chief of summer blessings 

We remember 

Galesburo* folks. 



SINCERELY YOURS 55 



When the future years on-coming 

With toil and care are rife, 
So we need to turn aside sometimes 

From out the toil and strife, 
Looking hack to Sequanota 

With its hearty wholesome life. 
There will come a thought inspiring, 

One that certain joy invokes 
When chief of summer blessings 

Wo remember 

Galesburg folks. 



56 SINCERELY YOURS 



A LETTER 

Phoenix, Ariz., Feb. 24. 

To Sequanota Club, Galesburg, 111. : 

Across the miles that stretch between 
Your winter white and ours of green, 
Glad thought returns to pleasures found 
On Sequanota's camping ground ; 
And we would send "our best' 7 to greet 
Our summer friends' midwinter meet. 

In midst of waving palm trees' shade, 

In atmosphere that songs pervade 

From gorgeous red-winged blackbird's throat, 

We move in joy and scarcely note 

Time's passing swift, till day has flown 

And evening dons her silvery gown. 

All star bedecked, in glory bright, 

The beauteous Arizona night 

Speaks soft to us, in undertone, 

Of other nights that we have known, 

In Sequanota's borders dear, 

When you, to whom Ave write, were near. 

From 'neath the graceful pepper tree, 
By memory's eye, afar we see 
(As of past days we think and talk) 
The birches, near our Pine Lake walk. 
!Not apples in "the orchard" nigh. 
But dates from branches hanging high. 



SINCERELY YOURS 57 

A wondrous land of fruit and flower, 



Of orange, olive, rose-clad bower; 
Sweet oleanders, growing tall 
(In pink and white the blossoms fall), 
While like old sentinels of night 
The giant cacti meet our sight. 



At early night (no day is long) 
There comes to us the burro's song, 
Recalling many an evening spent 
In clubhouse, where the air was rent 
By solos, wafted strong and high 
Against the Sequanota sky. 



Sometimes we ride abroad, and fast 
Beside the way has sudden passed 
That hero of the eastern child, 
The bold and brave a cow puncher" wild. 
Astride his bucking broncho, he 
Scorns folks who look so tame as we, 



And brings a memory — hard indeed — 
Of Dr. Becker's fiery steed 
Attached to equipage so grand 
That, driven with a haughty hand 
And head upraised (intent to "snub") 
Took Anna's "dummv" to the club. 



58 SINCERELY YOURS 

The Navajo, so tall and straight, 
Like Pugitabi, towers great; 
The fierce Apache, seeking foes, 
Reminds of Cheeki's broken nose ; 
While "Hot tamales !" — warm as toast — 
Suggest to us "Marshmailow roast." 

So many things, so many ways 
That speak of those departed days, 
And, thinking of them now again, 
We're glad Ave lived those hours then. 
To you, who helped to make them good, 
We write these lines in grateful mood. 
Sincere] v, your friends, 

Per K P. B. 



SINCERELY YOURS 59 



THE WAY APPOINTED. 

(To M. S.) 

(Thine eyes shall see the King in His beauty; 
they shall behold the land that is very far off. — 
Isaiah xxxiii, 17.) 

"Could I but catch some glimpse of that fair 
heaven, 
While striving in the daily battles here, — 
Could I but taste sometimes the blessed leaven, 

I would forget so much of doubt and fear. 
If Christ but walked to-day among earth's lowly, 

Sliow'ring His blessings freely upon all, 
I think then I could make my life more holy. 
When on my ear His words of help should fall." 
So reasoned I with self, one twilight dreary, 

When half-wrought duties dropped from tired 
hands, — 
Eor in "well-doing" I was near grown "weary," 
And "pastures green" seemed like to barren 
sands. 
Eor labor in His vineyard I'd been longing, 

Feeling that largest tasks would seem but 
small, — 
When homely duties to my hands came throng- 
ing, 
I felt I was not fit for work at all. 



60 SINCERELY YOURS 

Taking then the Book of Comfort, from its page I 
read of "rest;"— 

"Come to me ye heavy-laden, leave your cares 
upon my breast; 

Ask, and to you shall be given ; seek and know that 
you shall find." 

Seeing God in all your life-work, pure of heart 
and j^eace in mind. 

Longing for a sight of heaven, — look within., God's 
kingdom lives ; 

Asking for the hidden manna, — to Him who over- 
comes, Christ gives ; 

Needing Christ for daily helping, — "with you air 
way to the end ;" 

Owning then His blessed presence, "not His ser- 
vant, but His friend." 

Would you do Him loving service, — to His "least" 
is unto him ; 

Would you feel His hand in blessing, — turn a wan- 
dering soul from sin ; 

Would you reach the heavenly mansions, in His 
likeness "satisfied, — " 

Hold the hand that He has given ; — ■ in His love 
and care "abide/'' 



And now I thank thee, Lord, that thou are show- 
ing, 

In daily walks, small worries, pain and strife, 
The way thou hast appointed for my going. 

Ere I can claim the sift. Eternal Life. 



SINCERELY YOURS 61 

'Net through the martyr's flame, or flood to travel, 

Or facing heathen foe in foreign lands, 
But little trying puzzles to unravel, — 

Just the fulfilling of each day's demands. 
And since it is the "mission" thou hast given, 

Teach me to feel that it is planned in love; — 
As thou didst visit earth to point to heaven, 

Guide me through lowly work to that above ; 
As done for thee, help me to do each duty. 

Seeing thine image in the lives I meet, — 
Until — one day, I'll see the King in beauty, 

And leave "my mission" finished, — at His feet, 

In "Standard' 1893. K E. B. 



62 SINCERELY YOURS 



ITALIAN WEATHER. 

I have heard quite a dry story, 
Of a lovely western town 

Where a mackintosh goes begging 
And umbrellas are unknown ; 

Where the rubber shoe abides not, 
And gum boots ne'er appear. 

For "three hundred sixty-five days 
The sun shines in each year." 

There they have no need of crossings, 
!Xor sidewalks do they use, 

While the scraper and the footmat 
^sever meet with Phoenix shoes, 

That's why I heard the story 
By truthful' ( ?) people told, ' 

But 'tis looking just the least bit 
Like some one had been fooled. 

The dusky storm-clouds gather 
Over peaceful Phoenix homes 

And from the clouded mountain tops 
Condensing "moisture" comes, 

The flying dust is flowing now. 
In rivers wide and deep 

The dry and healthy atmosphere 
Is laid away to "'keep." 



SINCERELY YOURS 63 

Now — mackintosh and rubber shoes 
Are worth their weight in gold ; 

tk Xo need of walks in Phoenix'' 
Is a tale that once was told. 

To clean the traveler's muddy shoes, 
Footmats and scrapers? No indeed ! 

A ha tli tub of clear water 
And a sponge, best suit the need. 

"Just three hundred sixty-five days 
You'll find the sky is clear," 

Is the story oft repeated 
Of the Phoenix atmosphere. 

There seems but one conclusion 
Where the mind can safe arrive 

That Phoenix has five hundred days 
To our three sixty-five. 

A Tourist. 



64 SINCERELY YOURS 



THE BEST REWARD. 

So softly spoken, low and sweet, 

It fell on my ear as I took my seat 

By my dear big girl, to just repeat 

In my heart, her "Thank yon, dear." 

A word for Christ, in longing' pure 
That, by His strength it might endure 
And find a lodgment firm and sure, 
I spoke in His dear name. 

'Tis good to know a help is given, 
To lift some soul yet nearer Heaven. 
'Tis worth the having toiled and striven 
To learn how to do that. 

But dearer, better — even best 
Of all response to prayer's request 
To find a help at home, at rest 

In the heart of a preeions friend. 

Such joy is mine this Sabbath night. 
Seeing her face in its tender light 
Of true desire to better fight 

The battle of life God gives her. 

It is sweet and strong and childlike too, 
This face of "my girl," — and as few things do, 
It holds my heart to the good and true 
And for this — I thank her now. 



SINCERELY YOURS 65 



TO MRS. TWEED. 

Lessons learned we oft forget, 
But since the other clay I met 
The article before you set, 

I will remember, 
Put in it eggs or beef or fish 
Or any other thing you wish 
It still remains a salad dish. 

Yours most sincerely, 



Nell R Blount. 



66 SINCERELY YOURS 



FOE VALUE KECEIVED. 

For pleasant word and smiling face, 
For easy, hearty, helpful grace, 
Cheering my mood in many a place, 
My thanks accept. 

For music's charm, so soft, yet sure, 
Winging my heart to heights more pure, 
In strong desire that must endure, 
My thanks accept, 

The uplift needed oft, may come 
Not voiced in words, hut spirit shown, 
The touch of yours, has helped my own. 
My thanks accept. 

Sincerely, 1ST. E. B. 



SINCERELY YOURS 67 



CALMED. 

There's a storm upon the waters, 

And its angry rush and roar 
In the hi Hows plunging, leaping 

From the distant farther shore, 
Strike dismay to hearts discouraged 

When the dark waves threaten high 
Quick the call, "Awake ! O, Master ! 

Carest Thou not that we shall die?" 
Speaks a voice of wondrous power 

To the heaving, surging sea, 
"Peace. Be still." Then all is quiet 

On the raging Galilee. 

Comes a tumult in thy living? 

Threaten mighty waves of woe ? 
Does the sky grow dark about you, 

So you cannot see to go ? 
Beats the wind of unjust judgment 

Cutting deep into your heart? 
Call to PTim who once so felt it. 

He of all your life is part. 
Hear His voice in benediction, 

As your cries to Him ascend, 
"Fear ye not. Lo, I am with you, 

Always, even to the end." 



68 SINCERELY YOURS 



MINISTERING SPIRITS. 

A gay little bird whose active wing 

Carried him close to my window here, 
Sang as happy birdies sing, 

And troubled thought was soon made clear. 
My heart uplifted in quick praise 
For help that comes on hardest days. 

A dear little girl, whose loving thought, 

Slipped into my own, her clinging hand, 
Spoke as sweet lives, Heaven-taught, 
Give message sad hearts understand. 

My soul responded in a prayer, . .■ 

Thank? giving for God's daily care. 

While the little bird had never pressed 

His wing through clouds like dimmed my sight, 
Yet on the darkness in my breast, 
He flashed Heaven's pure sunlight, 

While the little girl knew not what tried, 
Her hand led straight to the Helper's side. 



SINCERELY YOURS 69 



WHAT MATTER? 

In many paths on life's long road, 

From these homes of earth to the Home of God, 

What matter, clear, which way we tread 

So our aim be straight 

Toward the narrow sate, 
And we walk as we are led ? 

And though sometimes we quite lose sight 
Of each other's way in the dark of night — 
What matter, if when sorely tried 

We see His face 

At the crossing place, 
Though we miss all else beside ? 

'Tis a narrow road and the veil between 
Your path and my own, is just a screen, 
What matter then if we see not through ? 

I know you are near, 

And you need not fear, 
But that T will come to you. 

Keeping with Him, there is but one end 
To this road of life we must all trend. 
What matter how our pathways wend 

If out of the strife 

Of the earthly life, 
Our Master we learn to know ? 



70 SINCERELY YOURS 

A TRANSPLANTED FLOWER 

(To the memory of Helen Rogers Armstrong.) 

The master walked in his garden, one chilly aut- 
umn day, 

And beckoned to the keeper — "I'll take this flower 
away. 

The winter winds are coming, and in the biting 
blast, 

'T would quickly droop. I'll move it, where it 
shall bloom and last. 

In one of my bright south windows, transplanted 
carefully, 

'Twill shed its helpful fragrance, and gladden all 
who see. 

It mars the garden's beauty to take the best away, 

But in the sunny window see what is placed to- 
day. 

And when the Spring shall open, all fresh, and 
bright and sweet, 

This flower shall greet your vision, its beauty all 
complete." 

The Master, Christ, in His garden, walking one 

sad, dark day, 
Spoke to His garden-keeper — "I'll take this flower 

away, 
Eor life's hard winds are coming, and in the bitter 

chill 



SINCERELY YOURS 71 

'Twould suffer much. I'll move it, where comes 

no hurting ill. 
In one of the many mansions, transplanted by my 

care, 
'Twill live, and grow to beautify the Heavenly 

Home so fair. 
It robs the home of beauty, to take the flower of 

love, 
But, in eternal gardens, 'twill wait for you above. 
And when life's winter ended, safe in the Other 

Home, 
In wondrous beauty glorified, you'll find your 
precious one. 



72 SINCERELY YOURS 



"IT WASN'T IN THE BOOKS." 

(To C. A. J.) 

He came from eastern prairie-lands, 

All covered white with snow, 
To seek the Arizona sands 

Where stones and cacti grow. 
He studied well his railroad guides, 

The whole long journey out, 
Until the western country 

He knew everything about, 
As printed in the books. 

The cowboy and the broncho gay, 

The burro and his song, 
Sweet music of the birds all day 

The green tree boughs among, 
The perfect roads with driving good, 

Throughout the whole long year ; 
The pure, unclouded sunshine 

Full of health and hearty cheer, 
These were printed in the books. 



SINCERELY YOURS 73 

He raised his head and spread his chest 

Arrived in Phoenix town, 
Endeavoring to see the best 

In redman, white and brown. 
To curio and ostrich farm, 

To mines and orange groves 
He went in eager spirit, 

That the pleasure-seeker knows, 
When following out the books. 



Awakened one dark morning 

By sound like dripping rain, 
He turned (such thought quick scorning) 

Closed his eyes and slept again, 
Till a good half hour after 

He heard the "breakfast" call, 
And raising high his window, 

Saw the earth in darkest pall, 
Such as wasn't in the books. 



Kain in drops, and sheets, and rivers, 

On the Phoenicians came, 
And through four days gave them shivers 

Though they wouldn't own the same. 
Mud, adown the perfect roadway 

In flowing torrents broke, 
While the earth remained enveloped 

In an atmosphere like smoke. 
Not mentioned in the books. 



74 SINCERELY YOURS 

This poor, deluded mortal 

From snowy lands so cold, 
Began to smile and shake his head 

At stories that were told. 
"Yes, quite unprecedented; 

Oldest inhabitants 
Haven't seen the like of weather 

Since the days of Indian dance, 
That von read of in the books." 



But, being a philosopher, 

(As tourists mostly must) 
He waited for the sky to clear, 

And dry the flowing dust, 
And now, in sunshine bright and warm 

He basks and meditates, 
"Well, after all, it matters not 

"Wha1 anyone relates 
In the pages of the books. 



"Because in ' Arizona air' 

There's something fine and pure, 
That through all kinds of weather 

Has a strength that will endure. 
Just call it anything you wish, 

Locate it as you may, 
Words can't suggest or picture it, 

Or drive its charm away, 
Or vet tell it in the books." 



SINCERELY YOURS 75 



THE SILVER LINING. 

These days of autumn splendor, 
When earth seems glad and bright, 

My thought., uplifted, reaches 
A larger, purer height. 

My heart grows strong and eager; 

My mind seems quick and clear, 
To think and speak God's praises, 

When only joy is near. 

But when the darkness gathers, 
And cares make long my day, 

Do I then as surelv thank Him 
Eor leading all the way ? 

When tired brain and body, 

Under burdens sore, have cried, 

And anxious hope is weakening 
For the boon that seems denied. 

When hands outstretched and trembling 
Just fail to reach the prize, 

And precious treasure slips away 
Before my longing eyes, 



76 SINCERELY YOURS 

When words unjust are spoken, 
And aims misunderstood, 

While but mistaken effort 

Seems the work I meant for good, 

Then — can I say as quickly, 
"Dear Lord, I take Thy will ; 

Whatever comes, e'en darkness, 
Ts thy benediction still ?" 

I plead, O, Heavenly Father ! 

For Thine all abundant power 
To give me strength in weakness, 

For each hitter, testing hour. 

Grant me the sweet possession 
Of an ever present Lord, 

To quiet my life's tempests, 
By His softly spoken word. 

Give me faith to pierce the shadows 
That but veil His glorious might, 

So I may work in patience, - 
'Till the dawning Morning Light. 



SINCERELY YOURS 77 



OTHER THINGS. 

(To F. B. P.) 

"You see, it was my first Thanksgiving away 
from home, and then — some other things — well, 
never mind." 

Heart speaks to heart 
Of thoughts that filled a long and lonely clay, 

Faced bravely in that strength each hour brings ; 
Tells of a burden found along the way 

And then, impulsive, adds — "Some other 
things — 
Well ! never mind !" 

Could we but tell, 
Ah, yes ! — These "other things" if we but knew, 

How deep would probe our vision into life. 
If w T e could read the heart-thought clear and true 
How much would be revealed of deep soul- 
strife. 
But "never mind !" 

Some things there are 
Touching these lives, not meant for friendly shar- 
ing 
Because the Father would a lesson show — 
A lesson just for self — whose patient bearing 
Gives strength the battling soul alone can know. 
Then "never mind !" 



78 SINCERELY YOURS 



; Tis better so. 
And when shall come that day of last reward, 
For burdens we have borne through love of 
Him, 
I think the dearest "well done" from our Lord 
Will be for "other things" that He has seen. 
So "never mind !" 



SINCERELY YOURS 79 



IN "THE GARDEN OF THE GODS/' 
MANITOU, COLORADO. 

What hand has shaped these outlines 

Of man and beast and bird? 
Was sound of the workman's chisel 

Within these gates once heard 1 
What painter's brush has traced them 

In tints of red and gold? 
What voice had power to call them, 

These wonders manifold ? 

Born at voice of that Master 

Who said— "Let there be light." 
Trained by hand of that Workman 

Who made the day and night. 
'Neath the sweep of that magic brush 

Which painted tree and flower 
A garden of the gods in truth, 

Tor here is Godlike power. 

lfi_ e — AV h a t night looked on his work 

And saw that it was "good," 
Has left His presence lingering here 

In blessing where He stood. 
The peace of Nature breathes on us 

Trom distant mountain peaks. 
The loving heart uplifted here, 

With its Creator speaks. 



80 SINCERELY YOURS 



HE GOT THERE. 

Up the garden pathway, slowly, 
Her hat back on her head, 

Comes a sorry looking maiden. 
With hands and face all red. 



As mamma sees her coming, 
She waits with sober face, 

To hear from Nan the story 
Of this — the last disgrace. 



The week has been full of trouble; 

Each day, from morn till night 
Some tangle to be straightened, 

Some wrong to be set right. 

The busy traveling feet, 

And inquiring little head, 
Into forbidden pathways 

The naughty girl had led. 

She'd cooked the stuffed owl for "turkey," 
"Playin' Thanksgiving yon know," 

And put feathers in the flower bod, 
"To have some chickies stow." 



SINCERELY YOURS 81 

Her kitty will remember 

Throughout his nine-lived age, 

The day ho helped "play circus" 
As a lion in his cage. 

The cage was the warming oven. 

And little Nan "forgot" 
Till Mary built a fire 

That made poor kitty hot. 

J Twas one thing then another 
All done in thoughtlessness, 

And now — the last and hardest — 
She comes — faults to confess. 

A winsome little face she has — 

A merry heart is hers, 
But something much like sorrow 

The childish spirit stirs. 

As mamma looks upon her. 
Sees stains on face and dress, 

She thinks of a recent promise 
And the trouble she can guess. 

In one corner of the garden 

The bush of berries stands 
And, bending head before her— 

Is "Nan witli tell-tale hands. 



82 SINCERELY YOURS 

"What does this mean, my daughter; 

Couldn't you keep away; 
Did you forget your Sunday verse 

That you had learned to say ? 

That 'Get behind me, Satan/ 

Did you remember then ?" 
"Mamma, I said it hard's I could 

And then, I said it again ; 

And, mamma, he DID get behind me 
And gave me AN AWFUL PUSH, 

And before I could try to stop him 

He'd pushed me right INTO THE BUSH." 

MORAL. — Keep away from the bushes. 



SINCERELY YOURS 83 



A VALENTINE. 
(To W. J. P.) 

You may talk about your roses red, 

And dainty violets blue, 
And Cupid with bis arrows 

Through hearts of naming hue ; 
Of lovely maidens, dreamy-eyed 

With peachy cheeks and brows of pearl, 
But when it comes to valentines 

My thought reverts to "just one girl." 

She may not look as some folks do, 

"Ten thousand beauty" style, 
But there's a — something strong and fine 

In glowing of her smile. 
It shines so warm and helpfully, 

With message of good cheer, 
That pleasures of one's life increase 

And sorrows disappear. 

A wholesome personality, 

Whose pleasant, hearty voice 
Can talk good, common sense at length, 

Or sing sweet strains at choice. 
And when it comes to working hard 

She demonstrates her right 
To teach a school, or keep a house 

Or shine a higher light. 



84 SINCERELY YOURS 

She is just a. "common" body, 

Yet quite uncommon too ; 
If all the rest were like her 

The world would he made new. 
A typical American 

Is she, my valentine, 
And the best that I can wish you, 

Is to find one just like mine. 



SINCERELY YOURS 85 



TO "THE PURITANS." 

(Per Edna J.) 

To the honored pale-face sisters 
On the Hill Top of the West End, 
Pocahontas sends a message 
By the hand of squaw most trusty. 
Sends her band of loveliest maidens 
Found in all the prairies' borders. 
Maidens trained in every good deed 
Known in tepee, field and forest. 
From her wigwam in the First Ward, 
Pocahontas thinks upon you 
At the hour of falling darkness 
Sees you gathered by your wood-fire 
Where she much has longed to greet you, 
But must linger sad and lonely 
By the firelight in her wigwam. 
Till the night air, chill and grippe-y 
Has all vanished into sunshine. 
— In her stead her maidens greet you 
With the vow of peace and favor, 
Toward their noble pale-face sisters 
Who so kindly join to welcome 
To your home on Baker Hill Top. 
May the sunshine and the moonlight 
Send their spirits through your roof-tree, 
And the laugh of rippling waters 
Mix and mingle in your talking, — 



86 SIXCERELY YOURS 

That this night-time long remembered, 
May give thoughts of joy and gladness 
Which will stay with every maiden, 
(Pale-face squaw or copper-colored) 
Through full many days of living 
On these prairies, or in far lands, 
Whereso'er their footsteps wander. 
— Take this greeting, pale-face sisters, 
From the hand of faithful maidens 
Who shall hear this message to you 
From the heart of Pocahontas. 



SINCERELY YOURS 87 



FRAGMENTS. 

In His good time, in His own way 

God answers prayer we voice to-day 

And though the "waiting" long should prove 

What matters it, since 'tis His love 

Withholding, that the hour supreme 

Shall but perfect our holiest dream? 



For every "giving up" that Ave have done, 

If great or small, 
When in the name of Christ the Blessed One, 

God sees it all, 
And counts to us, for idols overthrown 
Treasures far greater than we vet have known. 



SINCERELY YOURS 



POP CORN" JOHNNIE. 

(Sent with man made of ear of pop corn.) 

To see you safely home this eve 

Would please me beyond measure, 
So if your heart it will not grieve 

I'll gladly take that pleasure. 
You see, I rather like your way 

And hope you think I'm "sweet," 
Because most folks who know me, say 

"Quite good enough to eat," 
Perhaps some things that bright men know 

Are far beyond my reach, 
But there's one thing that I can show 

If they'll but let me teach. 
Name their accomplishments all through, 

Then let me place on top 
One which shall crown all worth to you, 

Ability to "pop." 



SINCERELY YOURS 

UOTADI1S T G. 
(To M.) 

"Why do I keep dead blossoms _ 
When so many fresh and fair 

Hang fragrant on the hushes 
Scenting the summer air V 7 



89 



Yon call them dead and worthless, 
Wilted and brown and dry. 

Yes,— but they waken memories 
That will not fade and die. 

Quick hands outstretched and eager, 
To give the blossoms sweet ; 

A young face bright and loving 
My welcoming smile to meet; 

Soft, tender fingers touching 

Each flower caressingly 
Complete the memory picture 

In these faded flowers I see. 

"My little girl," I name it 
And in my weary hours 

I see it flash before me 

From out the wilted flowers. 



90 SINCERELY YOURS 



COMPLETENESS. 

("I live my life so incompletely!" — B. F. A.) 

Incomplete ? Yes, even so, 

If v T e measure results by garnered grain; 
And failure oft-times seems our dearest plan 

As we look over fields of pain. 
But the Maker, whose love designed it, 

His work will perfect in each 
If we but try in patience 

The lessons He would teach. 
He gathers each earnest effort; 

He numbers each kindly word 
And the heart-thought true and tender, 

He counts as if 'twas heard. 
The motive that prompts the action 

Misjudged by others may be, 
But the all- wise Heavenly Father 

The wish of the heart will see. 
Omissions, mistakes and failures 

That discourage and try us so 
To Him are loving offerings 

If we do the best we know. 



SINCERELY YOURS 91 



A LETTER FROM SANTA GLAUS. 
(For Christmas eve exercise.) 

(A little girl speaks, with a letter in her hand.) 
Dear friends we're glad to see yon here, 

And hope you're glad to stay. 
We shall try to entertain yon 

But are very sorry to say 
Old Santa Clans can't help us 

As he has done every year, 
But sends instead a letter 

To say why he can't be here. 
I'll tell yon all about it 

And I'm sure you'll say its right, 
Though I know you are disappointed 

That he is not here tonight. 

(Turns to bear, who come? walking to the front.) 
Before I speak any longer 

I think it is only fair 
To give an introduction 

To our good friend ".Mr. Bear/' 
(Bear makes his bow.) 
He comes from where old Santa lives 

And brings us from his store 
Boxes, bundles, books and toys 

More than ever came before. 
With them he brought a letter 

From Santa's great big hand. 
I'd have him read it to you, 

But you could not understand 



92 SINCERELY YOURS 

So / will try to do it 

As it came addressed to me. 
Now, hear the reason given 

Why no Santa Clans yon see. 
(Tears open letter and reads.) 

North Pole, America, Dec. 18, 18 — . 
Dear friends, with great regret 

I take my pen to write 
That I must stay at home and rest 

This coming Christmas night. 
Through all the year I've labored 

And haven't I been busy ! 
Hurrying round at such a rate 

It almost made me dizzy. 
I've made so many presents 

I had to build more room 
And jam it full of Christmas gifts 

In fact, I've had a boom. 
Business was good, hut I'm tired out, 

And almost sick in bed 
Dr. Frost says, "Stay at home, 

Or next year, you'll be dead." 
So here I am, and here I'll stay \ 

For some three months, and then 
I'll set my work shop going 

For Christmas work again. 
Just look for me next Christmas 

And surely I'll be there. 
Now, in my place please to accept 

My fviencl and helper — Mr. Bear. 

(Bear bows and begins taking presents from tree.) 



SINCERELY YOURS 93 

HEARD 01$ THE COPPER. 

They stood at school's dismission 

To talk at the corner awhile. 
Her face downcast and sober, 

His, beaming 1 broad in smile. 

"Thanksgivin' Day tomorrow — 

Jolty ! I'm glad its come. 
"No school again till Monday. 

And heaps o' fun at home. 

"We're goin' to have a turkey 

And cranberry sauce and pies. 
And — Say! Why you lookin' so cross-like 

And kind o' mad in your eyes V 

"Guess you'd look mad in my place, 
With no turkey or nothing good, 

And just to have an old dinner, 
Of meat and potatoes for food. 

"How would you have Thanksgivin' 
With nothing to 'thank you' about? 

If you just lived at my house, 
I guess then you'd find out." 

Slightly nonplussed, he faltered — 
Then with quick protesting face, 

Questioned : "Well, ain't your father 
Just got him a good sure place ? 

"Ain't your mother well o' the fever ? 

Gee ! That's Thanksgiving enough. 
I'll bet I could have a good one 

Without anv turkev and stuff." 



94 SINCERELY YOCRS 



"TIME IS SHORT." 

Yes, the time is short — so short, my friend, 

We should not keep its shade, 
For soon — so soon must come the end 

To all that life has made. 
The things we leave behind us, 

To count when life is done, 
Are the loving deeds that bind us 

To the dear ones left at home. 
Yes, the time is short — so short, dear one, 

That our tasks are over-planned; 
Many we know are poorly done, 

As they fall from a hurried hand; 

But the Maker of All, Who knows us, 

"Remembereth that we are dust." 
Let us live as we think He shows us, 

Leave results with Him, in trust. 
Yes, the time is short — so short, clear heart, 

We d;irc not make it vain, 
It seems so little is set apart 

For joy — and so much for pain ; 
So many to need the sunny smile 

And words that are kindly said ; 
Flowers given to the living 

Count more than to the dead. 



SINCERELY YOURS 95 

TO YOU. 
( Non-subscribers. ) 

Have you seen it \ Have you read, it ? 

Tf you haven't, hurry then, 
For I tell you that Gazette man 

Doesn't stop and bite his pen. 
When the news is in the air, 

Quick he settles down to work, 
Buffles up his smooth front hair 

And goes at it like a Turk. 

That's the reason that the items 

Are bright and fresh and new; 
That's the way yon rind what's doing 

And where and when and who. 
And the day that things have happened 

That same evening they appear 
In the columns of his paper, 

Plain and straight and true and clear. 



"Hustler V well now you are talking, 

For that paper leads the wax- 
In the boom that sure is starting 

And is headed straight this way. 
If you want to keep things moving 

For Arizona's fame 
Just pay in your subscription, 

And srive your street and name. 



96 SINCERELY YOURS 



WORTH WHILE. 



So swiftly move the passing years, 
So close are blended hopes and fears. 
So full is life of bitter tears, 
We may forgive,- — we should forget. 
Not ours to pay the avenger's debt. 

So many lives to need our aid, 

So many hearts weak and afraid, 

Let's leave that injury unpaid. 

God makes it right, someday, somewhere. 

And vou and I can end it there. 



~No time for aught but loving toil. 
We must not waste — we dare not spoil 
The days that come, nor e'er recoil, 
If they demand some sacrifice 
That seems perhaps a costly price. 



Things worth the while, must always cost. 
Things "given up" need not mean "lost" 
Bread on the waters freely tossed, 
After long clays shall come again 
With sure reward that shall remain. 



SINCERELY YOURS 97 



So many graves in Oakwood now. 
That were not made one year ago, 
And you and I may never know 
How close upon the border-land 
Our wayward feet today may stand. 



Putting behind those hurts and stings, 
Forgetting all but helpful things, 
Welcome each day with good it brings. 
The past, all gone! — the present here. 
Live to the full a glad New Year. 



SINi ERE1 ) YOURS 



\\ ANSWERING FACE. 

Across the crowded li;iil my glance had wandered, 

As waiting music's sweel toned voice again, 
A little while in dreamy thoughl I pondered, 

Longing to put in words thai wondroua strain. 
Aimless, I looked qoI heeding, little caring, 

Where tx>ved my eye. Thai liarp voice had 
reached down 
So deep into my heart, that I was sharing 

In heavenly visions !<> the world, unknown. 

Uplifted far above the commonplace 

As though a veil, 1 gazed on all around, 
When, in one glance, I saw an answering face, 

Another heart, the music's soul had found. 
It -poke through softened glance and tender light 

Of features I had lately learned to love. 
My new found friend did your thought know to- 
night 

How close with it my own trod courts above ? 



Oh, sweet companionship of kindred sonls, 

By which in pleasant paths our feet are led 
To find that deepest thought is understood, 

Although oft times no spoken word is said. 
Communion closer such than many know, 

When hand in hand and face to face they talk, 
For heart to heart in friendship's path we go, 

Though far apart our daily steps may walk. 



SINCERELY YOURS ' , '' 



IT IS WEITTEK 

(Dec. 31.) 

"What I have written, T have written." — Pilate. 
Have I written on the pages 

Of the year so swift gone by, 
Thoughts to live through endless ages 

Or in deep oblivion die \ 
Eave my days been worth the living 

To my friends, in helpful giving, 
Keaching to the fullest measure, 

Good, thai deeper is than pleasure? 

Have I written on the faces 

In my daily walk in Hie. 
1 [ope and pence or are there traces 

Of a burden, or of strife? 
Sympathy so much is needed— 

Have I seen and have I heeded? 
My loss greater than the ether, 

If I failed to help a brother. 

Have the little children brightened 
At my hearty, welcoming word, 

Or tender hearts been frightened 
By some quick reproof they heard? 



100 SINCERELY YOURS 



Was the stranger in our meeting 
Gladder made by earnest greeting, 

Or, blinded selfishly, have I 
Erred in path of charity 1 



What is written I have written — 

And my hand cannot erase 
Many things — that conscience smitten — 

I would gladly now efface. 
Words unworthy, actions hurried, 

Things I wish were dead and buried. 
But thev live — and I regretting, 

Long to know of their forgetting. 



Only God can make it whiter, 

All the record I have scanned, 
And my heavy heart grows lighter 

'Neath the shadow of His hand. 
Clean and new the page He's turning, 

While my soul in honest yearning, 
Lifts to Him its eager "pleading, 

For His constant, kindly leading. 



SINCERELY YOURS 101 



GOOD-BYE OLD YEAR 

So 'tis "good-bye," old friend, — 

You've done so mucb for me. 
In days all told, more rich tban gold 

Your kindly gifts I see. 
In quiet now, I face tbe end 
Waiting to say, "Good-bye, old friend." 

Good-bye, old year, — good-bye. 

'Tis hard to let you go, 
For there are ways in your past days 

That just we two may know 
Ways leading far o'er mountains high, 
But now to them must be good-bye. 

And words — heart-words so true, 
Whose tones could tell so much, 

Eyes brave and clear, strong hands so dear, 
E'en yet I feel their touch. 

And shall they go with me or you ? 

Tell me, old year, must they go too ? 

You claim them for your own 2 

Ah, well ! So let it be — 
But of my heart, they form such part 

You cannot take from me. 
So take your own and I take mine; 
I would not give what's mine for thine. 



102 SINCERELY YOURS 



A PRAYER. 

O, Father ! Lead Thy child, 
While the fierce storm and wild 
Blows round about me! — 
Let me ne'er doubt Thee ! 
My hand in Thine safe hold, 
Shield me in night and cold, 
Till safe within the Fold 
Thy care hath brought me. 

0, Master! Come to me 
ISToav in my need of Thee! 
Quiet the storm within, 
Save me from self, again," 
Take Thou my wayward will, 
My heart with peace now fill, 
That I may follow Thee 
On path of charity! 



SINCERELY YOURS 103 



HIS REST. 

Have you heard his invitation 
Weary heart, by care oppressed ? 

Have you told to Him the conflicts 
That have raged within your breast? 



He is waiting to receive you 
And forever grant you peace ; 

Turn to Him and let His helping 
From your burden give release. 



.Not a peace that means forgetting, 
But a strength to bear and use, 

Every circumstance that enters 
In your life, — as He shall choose. 

Pain and failure, sorrow, sickness 

Such as come to every life 
He will touch and turn to blessing 

Yielding strength from all the strife. 



Strength that only comes with battling ;- 

Peace that follows victory. 
Would you have them? Let the Master 

Lay His "easv 



104 SINCERELY YOURS 



UKDEKSTOOD. 

It is not for explanations 

Or the why to prove pain right ; 
It is not for kind assurance 

That I've bravely met the fight,- 
But 'tis left the quiet heart-tone 

Or loving clasp of hand 
To bring the needed comfort 

From one who can understand. 

Kind friends with grateful praises, 

To speak the help I've given, 
Seeming to think my journey 

Is easier turned toward Heaven, — 
And few — so few, remember 

That every life must bear 
Its portion of pain and sorrow, — 

Its weakness — sometimes despair. 

So when one meets me, knowing 

That I am of common clay 
Tired, discouraged and lonely, 

And will simply, kindlv sav — 
"Ah, yes ! I know— I have felt it," 

Some way it lifts my load, 
To clasp the hand of this other 

Traveling the selfsame road. 



SINCERELY YOURS 105 



A PSALM OF TRUTH. 

(Apologies to Longfellow.) 

Tell us not in many voices, 

To "go south and then go east," 

For we followed those directions 
To Miss Miner's wedding feast. 

Mud was deep and mud was sticky, 
And we traveled several hours 

Just to view the lovely landscape 
And eat lunch between the showers. 

Much enjoyment and no sorrow 
Was our destined lot that day, 

Although each succeeding corner 
Found us further from the way. 

Roads were long and time was fleeting, 

But we wanted all the fun 
To he found inside the county 

So we gayly traveled on. 

Miles and miles and miles we journeyed 
Just to breathe the country^ air, 

And our joy had been perfected 
Tf we'd onlv seen Adair. 



106 SINCERELY YOURS 

On thai morning of the wedding 

1 11 thai journey to southeast, 
We were taugh.1 full many a lesson 

Which the following was not least. 

This! no! Miner, however certain 
Ee may seem to know the way, 

For lie sure will misdirect you, 
Ami in quick derision say, 

"Did you go south and then go easl 
And watch the telephone wires in air? 

Why sure you lo^si ijour wwy four miles 
And must have seen Adair." 

There were also other torments, 

George's "Number One" — and "Two," 

Who must every half ;i minute 
Each presenl his special view. • 

Heed them not. They are aol worthy 
Of a passing, slightest glance. 

Long black bottles their companions, 
And they steal when given a chance. 



Cherries, chickens, even turkeys 
Were not safe within their sight. 

And the bride was boldly robbed too 
Of a kiss, George claimed his right. 



SINCERELY YOURS 107 

Trusl no Georges, however seeming 
True and honesl in their speech. 

They are simply waiting, watching 
For some tease within their reach. 



"1 )id you go south and then go east 
And watch the telephone wires in air? 

Why sure — von lost your way four miles 
And must have seen Adair." 



Novor mind, deluded mortals, 
All your words are but ;i waste, 

For we drove .is we desired, 

And found fun to suit our baste. 



All the journey and the wedding, 

Bride and groom and guests and home, 

Kepi us many i Lines remarking 
"We are surelv fflad we've come." 



Roses of the bride remind us 

Of the pleasures of the day 
While the <\"^> thai chased behind us 

Lead us now to think and say, 



"Life is sweel and life is bitter 

Some things good and some things sad, 

And we've learned to never listen. 
When unl ruthers fool us bad." 



108 SINCERELY YOURS 

Words of such men will remind us, 
We can do our driving best 

And departing, leave behind us 

Wheel tracks that shall guide the rest. 

Wheel tracks that perhaps another 
Driving through some rainy day, 

May take heart, on seeing plainly, 
Follow quick, and find the way. 

Let us, then, discard directors 

And insisting we are right, 
Just go on as sense commands us 

And get home before 'tis night. 

"The Big Fouk. 



SINCERELY YOURS 109 



GOD KNOWS. 

Over the grave of the unknown sleeper was 
placed a simple headstone, bearing the words, 
"God Knows." 

God knows — Ah, yes ! What countless things 

Are hidden from this human sight, 
That we can only leave with Him 

Till dawns the glorious Morning Light. 
Unnumbered graves on unknown hills, 

Like that on lonely RTebo's mount, 
Forgotten or unknown by man, 

And only God Himself, keeps count. 

God knows — Ah, yes ! The mysteries 

That weary many an aching heart, 
By Him are seen and understood 

Before the bitter tear-drops start. 
He knows just why that good must go ; 

Just why that hurting ill must stay. 
We cannot know. We only trust, 

Remembering that God guides the way. 

God knows — Ah, yes! What comfort 'tis 

To know the eye that never sleeps 
Sees all that is, — and every life 

In constant watchful memory keeps. 
He knows the hopes yet unfulfilled ; 

He knows the plan, the loss, the gain. 
He sees the depth of every soul 

And understands its joy and pain. 



110 SINCERELY YOURS 

Gtad knows — Oh, yes! He knows each heart, 

And looking beyond that seen by man 
He reads the motive pure and true 

That lived before mistakes began. 
He sees the aim and not thei deed, 

And "wrong" in man's sight, oft may claim 
From His just judgment, the "Well done! 

For thou hast labored in My name." 

God knows — Ah, yes ! Our Father knows 

The least one of His children's needs, 
Seeing the want of every heart 

Far better than the heart that pleads. 
He knows all things, and this we know, 

"He doeth all things for the best." 
Then gladly let us leave all there 

Safe in Our Father's care to rest. 



OtC 26 



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